PNG's Goroka Airport runway reopens after tyre burst incident

A Niugini Aviation aircraft carrying cargo from a remote airstrip encountered trouble upon touching down at Goroka Airport yesterday afternoon, prompting an immediate emergency response from airport authorities.

 PNG's Goroka Airport runway reopens after tyre burst incident/ Photo supplied

The PAC750 plane, registered as P2-RNA, had just completed its short journey from Guwasa Aerodrome when its left landing gear tyre gave way during landing on Runway 35L at approximately 5pm. Despite the sudden failure, the experienced pilot managed to guide the aircraft to a complete stop near the fire station, ensuring the safety of the two crew members onboard.

National Airports Corporation officials have confirmed that the aircraft was transporting 18 bags of coffee beans at the time of the incident. No injuries were reported, and both crew members walked away unharmed from what could have been a more serious situation.

Airport rescue teams wasted no time, arriving at the scene within two minutes to apply foam around the damaged tyre area as a precaution against any potential fire risk. The Pilot-in-Command had immediately alerted the Goroka Air Traffic Control Tower, setting off the standard emergency response protocols.

With the aircraft's right wingtip still extending over the runway edge marking, officials made the call to close Runway 35L for safety reasons. A NOTAM was issued at 5:21pm, and an incoming PNG Air flight heading for Goroka was instructed to turn back to Port Moresby to avoid any possible collision risk.

The aircraft operator mobilised a recovery crew from Mt Hagen, who arrived later that evening to replace the burst tyre. By 1:05am the following morning, the aircraft had been successfully moved to the apron area. Airport staff then conducted thorough inspections of the runway surface before giving the all-clear.

"We are grateful for the swift action taken by all parties involved," said an NAC spokesperson.

"Runway operations resumed at 4am today, ahead of schedule, and we commend the professionalism of our personnel and the aircraft crew in handling this situation."